Oceano Campground
4.35177 reviews555 Pier Ave. Oceano, CA 93445
Oceano Campground
$25.00 - $50.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$50.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for campsites ranges from $25 for tent sites to $50 for RV sites with hookups. Additional vehicle fees apply and are collected upon arrival. Shower tokens and dump station fees are separate.
About this campground
Nestled between rolling sand dunes and a serene freshwater lagoon, Oceano Campground welcomes both RV enthusiasts and tent campers to experience coastal California at its finest. Wake up to the sound of waves and spend your days exploring pristine beaches, while enjoying modern comforts including well-maintained restrooms, token-operated hot showers, and shaded picnic areas perfect for sunset dinners.
Oceano Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including RV, tent, and group camping. While it does not offer primitive or glamping options, it provides facilities for both standard and accessible camping.
Historical SignificanceYour camping experience unfolds on ancestral Chumash lands within the magnificent Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes complex, where thousands of years of indigenous heritage blend with one of California's most ecologically significant coastal environments. This sacred landscape tells stories of ancient peoples who thrived along these shores, leaving behind a legacy that enriches every visit.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with California's coveted coastal climate, Oceano enjoys gentle temperatures year-round, with thermometers typically reading between 46°F on crisp mornings and a comfortable 70°F during sun-drenched afternoons. The region sees minimal rainfall, averaging just over a quarter-inch weekly during the wet season, ensuring plenty of blue-sky days for outdoor adventures.
ElevationSet at sea level where the Pacific meets the shore, the campground offers easy access to both beach and dune environments without the challenge of elevation changes, making it perfect for campers of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a photographer's paradise where the tranquil Oceano Lagoon mirrors the sky, coastal dunes create ever-changing sculptures in sand, and diverse bird species fill the air with song. Mature trees throughout the campground offer welcome shade and frame spectacular views, while the nearby beach beckons with endless horizons and dramatic sunsets.
Geological RegionExperience the raw beauty of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes complex, where wind and waves have sculpted one of California's most spectacular coastal environments. This living landscape features towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and rare freshwater lagoons that create a unique ecosystem found nowhere else along the Central Coast.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-compliant facilities include restrooms, shower buildings, and accessible fishing platforms. Sand wheelchairs are available at entrance stations free of charge on a first-come, first-serve basis. Accessible trails such as the Coastal Access Trail and Guiton Trail allow for exploration of the lagoon and botanical gardens.
Sites SizeSites vary from standard pull-through RV pads with a maximum length of 36 feet to tent sites offering grassy areas for setup. Some sites are described as spacious, while others are more compact.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some spots offering substantial space and shade from trees, while others are closer and more exposed. A user noted, 'One small and crowded next to others, and one enormous, easily 4-5x larger than the first.'
Total Campsites82 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the lagoon for a quieter experience; RV spots with hookups include sites like OC03-OC07.
Best Campsites8, 14, 17, 20, 26, 28, 40, 45, 50, 53, 56, 63, 68, 73, 79, 81.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite permits up to 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops with a mix of pull-through and back-in sites. Tent sites are located closer to the lagoon.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available at ReserveCalifornia online or by phone at 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability. Unreserved sites must be re-registered by 9:00 AM on the day of departure.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or modified through ReserveCalifornia at least 48 hours prior to arrival. Fees may apply.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Oceano Campground offers diverse outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, bird watching, and lagoon exploration. Located near the Oceano Dunes, many visitors enjoy beach walks, sunset viewing, and driving on the beach. Additionally, educational programs such as Junior Ranger activities and campfire talks are often conducted during the summer months.
HikingHiking opportunities include the Coastal Access Trail, which connects the campground to the beach and butterfly grove. The trail features a compacted aggregate and wooden surface, making it accessible. Users also noted the lagoon trail as a great spot for nature hikes: 'Nice areas to walk with kids on nature hikes.'
FishingFishing is available at the Oceano Lagoon, which features accessible fishing piers. Freshwater fishing requires a valid license. A user stated, 'Not great for fishing in the lagoon, but all else was great.'
SwimmingSwimming is available at the nearby beach. Users described the water temperature as 'perfect, not freezing.'
BikingBiking is popular on the long beach nearby. A reviewer noted, 'A VERY long beach that tests the range of our e-bikes.'
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight, particularly bird watching at the lagoon and observing monarch butterflies at the grove. Coyotes were also mentioned as part of the natural soundscape.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include walking, driving vehicles on the sand, and enjoying beach fires. Campfires on the beach must adhere to specific size and material guidelines.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational programs such as Junior Ranger activities and campfire talks are held during summer. The Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits about local wildlife and cultural history.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Wood must be untreated and free of metal or toxic substances.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are common near the lagoon. Ticks have been reported in the area. Wildlife such as coyotes and birds may be present.
Active alertsNone currently reported.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station at 928 Pacific Blvd., Oceano, CA 93445 (0.3 miles, 2-minute drive). Nearest hospital: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital (5.5 miles, 13-minute drive).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season includes summer months and holidays. Reservations are strongly recommended during these times.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but no specific recycling details were provided. Users are reminded to 'take your garbage with you' as part of the Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Oceano Lagoon and within walking distance to the beach.
Common complaintsIssues include rude staff, early check-in restrictions, and theft concerns. Additional complaints about ants and noisy maintenance vehicles.
HostCamp hosts are on-site and sell firewood. Mixed reviews about their helpfulness.
Campground Map
555 Pier Ave. Oceano, CA 93445
Driving directionsLocated along California's Central Coast, take Highway 1 to the town of Oceano. The campground is on Pier Avenue, near the visitor center.
Easily accessible via Highway 1. Roads to the campground are paved and manageable for all vehicle types. Seasonal updates on access may occur due to park maintenance.Nearby places
Grover Beach (2 miles, 5-minute drive), Pismo Beach (4 miles, 10-minute drive), Arroyo Grande (5 miles, 12-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies available at local stores in Oceano (less than 1 mile). Gas stations and additional services available in Grover Beach and Arroyo Grande within 5 miles.
Camper Reviews
4.4
177 reviews
Oceano Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Oceano Campground are mixed, with praise for clean facilities, proximity to the beach and lagoon, and helpful staff. However, some concerns about staff attitude, maintenance, and wildlife issues like ticks and ants were noted.
Review Summaries
Clean bathrooms and showers, well-maintained facilities, accessible trails, and proximity to beach and lagoon were frequently highlighted. One review said, 'Had a great time camping at Oceano...
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Issues raised include rude staff, wildlife concerns (such as ticks and ants), and occasional problems with parking enforcement. Homelessness in the area was mentioned as a safety concern.
Bring bug spray for mosquitoes and ticks, tokens for showers, and check tide schedules before driving on the beach. Some users recommended specific campsites such as #72 for privacy.
Winter months are popular for observing monarch butterflies, while summer sees peak use of educational programs like Junior Rangers. Rainy seasons may lead to site flooding.
1. 'Clean bathrooms and showers. That alone gives it 5 stars.' 2. 'Very cool trails from the campground to the beach. The ‘coastal forest’ vibe and winding trails with hidden rope swings and other...
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Best campsites include #8, #14, #17, #20, #26, #28, #40, #45, #50, #53, #56, #63, #68, #73, #79, and #81. Site #72 was noted for privacy, but ant infestations were reported.
Accessible facilities received praise for thoughtful design. A reviewer stated, 'Loved the handicapped spots. Wide cemented spots for parking and around the table, allowing me to access my site...
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Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Users appreciated the pet-friendly environment and suggested joining the #PismoBARKRanger Club.
Last updated July 31, 2025